CJC-1295
Also known as: CJC-1295 DAC, CJC-1295 without DAC, Modified GRF (1-29), Mod GRF 1-29, Tesamorelin analogue
CJC-1295 is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone. It exists in two forms: with and without Drug Affinity Complex (DAC), each offering different pharmacokinetic profiles.
CJC-1295 is a 3,367.97 Da (without DAC) research peptide. CJC-1295 is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone. It exists in two forms: with and without Drug Affinity Complex (DAC), each offering different pharmacokinetic profiles.
Also called: CJC-1295 DAC, CJC-1295 without DAC, Modified GRF (1-29)
3,367.97 (without DAC)
Molecular Weight
Daltons
2
Strong Evidence
benefits
4
Studies Cited
peer-reviewed
1000-2000
Typical Dose
mcg
Overview
CJC-1295 is a synthetic peptide analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), consisting of 29 amino acids with key substitutions to improve metabolic stability and extend its biological half-life. The peptide was originally developed by ConjuChem Biotechnologies and exists in two primary forms. CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) incorporates a lysine linker that binds to albumin in the bloodstream, dramatically extending its half-life to approximately 6-8 days. CJC-1295 without DAC (also called Modified GRF 1-29 or Mod GRF) has a shorter half-life of approximately 30 minutes, producing more pulsatile growth hormone release that more closely mimics natural GH secretion. Both forms work by binding to GHRH receptors on the anterior pituitary, stimulating somatotroph cells to synthesize and secrete growth hormone. CJC-1295 is frequently researched alongside growth hormone secretagogues like Ipamorelin to produce amplified GH elevation through complementary receptor pathways.
Key Takeaways: CJC-1295
- Strongest evidence supports CJC-1295 for increased growth hormone secretion and elevated igf-1 levels
- Research doses typically range from 1000 to 2000 mcg via subcutaneous injection
- 2 benefits with strong evidence, 2 moderate, 2 preliminary
- Half-life: ~30 min (without DAC) / 6-8 days (with DAC)
- 4 cited research studies in this guide
Mechanism of Action
CJC-1295 functions as a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) receptor agonist. It binds to GHRH receptors on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland, activating adenylyl cyclase and increasing intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels. This triggers the synthesis and pulsatile release of growth hormone (GH). The released GH then stimulates the liver to produce insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which mediates many of GH's downstream anabolic and regenerative effects. The DAC version achieves its extended duration by covalently binding to serum albumin via a reactive maleimide group, protecting the peptide from enzymatic degradation and renal clearance. This creates sustained GH elevation. The non-DAC version (Mod GRF 1-29) produces acute GH pulses that are amplified when co-administered with ghrelin mimetics like Ipamorelin, as GHRH and ghrelin act through separate but complementary receptor pathways on the pituitary. Importantly, CJC-1295 preserves the natural negative feedback loop; somatostatin can still suppress GH release, maintaining physiological regulation.
Research Benefits
CJC-1295 at a Glance
CJC-1295 functions as a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) receptor agonist.
Increased Growth Hormone Secretion
Strong EvidenceClinical trials demonstrated significant and sustained elevation of plasma GH and IGF-1 levels following CJC-1295 administration, with dose-dependent responses observed across multiple studies.
Elevated IGF-1 Levels
Strong EvidenceHuman studies showed sustained IGF-1 elevation lasting 6-14 days after a single injection of CJC-1295 DAC, with mean increases of 1.5-3x baseline levels depending on dose.
Improved Body Composition
Moderate EvidenceResearch suggests GH-mediated improvements in lean mass and reductions in fat mass. While direct body composition trials with CJC-1295 are limited, the GH/IGF-1 axis is well-established in body composition regulation.
Enhanced Recovery & Repair
Moderate EvidenceElevated GH and IGF-1 are associated with improved tissue repair, collagen synthesis, and recovery. CJC-1295-mediated GH elevation may support these processes through established GH pathways.
Sleep Quality Improvement
PreliminaryGrowth hormone is primarily released during deep sleep. Research suggests GHRH analogues may improve slow-wave sleep duration and quality, potentially through a positive feedback loop with natural GH pulsatility.
Anti-Aging & Longevity Research
PreliminaryDeclining GH/IGF-1 levels are a hallmark of aging (somatopause). CJC-1295 is studied as a means to restore more youthful GH levels without exogenous GH administration, preserving pulsatile release patterns.
Research Dosing Protocols
Research Purposes Only: All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
| Research Protocol | Dose Range | Route |
|---|---|---|
| CJC-1295 DAC, standard protocol | 1000–2000 mcg | Subcutaneous injection |
| Mod GRF 1-29 (no DAC) — standard protocol | 100–100 mcg | Subcutaneous injection |
| Mod GRF 1-29 + Ipamorelin saturation dose | 100–200 mcg | Subcutaneous injection |
Frequency
DAC: 1-2x per week | No DAC: 1-3x daily (often pre-bed)
Timing
No DAC: 30 min before meals or at bedtime for GH pulse optimization. DAC: any consistent schedule.
Cycle Length
8-16 weeks typical, some protocols run continuously with periodic breaks
Research Notes
- 1The saturation dose of Mod GRF 1-29 is approximately 1 mcg/kg body weight (~100 mcg for most adults).
- 2Higher doses do not proportionally increase GH release due to receptor saturation.
- 3Mod GRF 1-29 is most commonly combined with Ipamorelin at a 1:1 ratio (e.g., 100 mcg each).
- 4CJC-1295 DAC produces sustained GH elevation, it does NOT mimic natural pulsatile release.
- 5Fasting for 2-3 hours before Mod GRF administration may improve the GH pulse amplitude.
- 6Blood glucose and free fatty acids suppress GH release; avoid carbs/fats around dosing.
Reconstitution Guide
Standard Reconstitution
Vial Size
2 mg
Bacteriostatic Water
2 mL
Concentration
10 mcg
per 0.1 mL (10 units)
Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Materials
CJC-1295 vial, bacteriostatic water, alcohol swabs, insulin syringes.
Equilibrate Temperature
Remove the vial from storage and allow it to reach room temperature (5-10 minutes).
Sanitize
Swab the rubber stopper of both the peptide vial and bacteriostatic water vial with alcohol.
Draw Water
Draw 2 mL of bacteriostatic water into a syringe.
Add Water to Vial
Insert the needle into the peptide vial and direct the water stream against the glass wall — not directly onto the powder.
Mix Gently
Swirl the vial gently until the powder is fully dissolved. Never shake. The solution should be clear and colorless.
Store Properly
Refrigerate at Refrigerated (2-8°C / 36-46°F) after reconstitution. Up to 30 days refrigerated after reconstitution.
Storage Temperature
Refrigerated (2-8°C / 36-46°F) after reconstitution
Shelf Life
Up to 30 days refrigerated after reconstitution
Important Notes
- •Use bacteriostatic water for multi-use vials.
- •Store unreconstituted vials frozen (-20°C).
- •Mod GRF 1-29 vials commonly come in 2 mg or 5 mg sizes.
- •CJC-1295 DAC vials are typically 2 mg or 5 mg.
- •Swirl gently — never shake the vial.
- •Solution should be clear. Discard if cloudy.
CJC-1295 Dosing Calculator
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CJC-1295 Reconstitution Calculator
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Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- !Flushing or warmth sensation (common, typically subsides within minutes)
- !Water retention; mild bloating, especially during initial use
- !Tingling or numbness in extremities (related to GH-mediated fluid shifts)
- !Increased hunger (GH can stimulate appetite)
- !Headache (reported occasionally, usually mild)
- !Injection site reactions, redness, itching, or soreness
- !Joint stiffness (related to fluid retention, typically dose-dependent)
- !Potential for elevated blood glucose with sustained use (GH is diabetogenic at high levels)
Potential Interactions
- ⚡May interact with insulin and diabetes medications — GH has diabetogenic effects that can raise blood glucose.
- ⚡complementary effects with ghrelin mimetics (Ipamorelin, GHRP-6, GHRP-2), combined use amplifies GH release.
- ⚡Somatostatin and its analogues (e.g., octreotide) will blunt or block GH release stimulated by CJC-1295.
- ⚡Glucocorticoids may reduce the GH-releasing efficacy of GHRH analogues.
- ⚡Thyroid hormone status affects GH axis responsiveness; hypothyroidism reduces GH response.
- ⚡No formal drug interaction studies specific to CJC-1295 have been conducted.
Important: Side effects and interactions listed here are compiled from published research and community reports. This is not a complete list. No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted for most research peptides. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Research Studies
The following studies are referenced in this profile. PubMed IDs are provided where available for independent verification.
Prolonged stimulation of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I secretion by CJC-1295, a long-acting analog of GH-releasing hormone, in healthy adults
Phase I/II clinical trial demonstrating that CJC-1295 DAC produced sustained, dose-dependent increases in GH and IGF-1 levels in healthy adults for up to 14 days after a single injection, with a favorable safety profile.
Effects of a growth hormone-releasing hormone analog on endogenous GH pulsatility and insulin sensitivity in healthy older men
Demonstrated that GHRH analogues can restore more youthful GH pulsatility patterns in older adults, with sustained IGF-1 elevation and preserved insulin sensitivity at moderate doses.
Growth hormone secretagogues: history, mechanism of action, and clinical development
thorough review of GHRH analogues and GH secretagogues, including CJC-1295, discussing mechanisms, clinical data, and the rationale for combination protocols with ghrelin mimetics.
GH-releasing peptides — mechanism and use
Foundational paper explaining the synergy between GHRH and ghrelin pathways, demonstrating that combined stimulation produces GH release greater than either pathway alone.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list of all published research. Studies are selected for relevance and quality. Click PubMed IDs to verify sources independently. Inclusion does not imply endorsement of the peptide for any clinical use.
Frequently Asked Questions
CJC-1295 with DAC has a Drug Affinity Complex that binds to albumin, extending its half-life to 6-8 days and creating sustained GH elevation. CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29) has a 30-minute half-life, producing short, pulsatile GH spikes that more closely mimic natural secretion patterns.
CJC-1295 (GHRH analogue) and Ipamorelin (ghrelin mimetic) act through different receptor pathways on the pituitary. When combined, they produce amplified GH release significantly greater than either peptide alone. This combination is one of the most researched peptide stacks.
Mod GRF 1-29 (no DAC) is commonly administered before bedtime to coincide with natural nocturnal GH pulses, or in the morning on an empty stomach. Fasting for 2-3 hours before dosing may improve the GH response. CJC-1295 DAC timing is less critical due to its long half-life.
No. CJC-1295 is not FDA-approved. It completed early-phase clinical trials but development was discontinued. It remains a research compound. Tesamorelin, a related GHRH analogue, has received FDA approval for HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Unlike exogenous GH (which suppresses endogenous production via negative feedback), CJC-1295 stimulates the pituitary to release its own GH. The natural somatostatin feedback loop remains intact, meaning the body can still regulate GH levels. However, prolonged supraphysiological stimulation may warrant monitoring.
Growth hormone has diabetogenic effects; it promotes insulin resistance and can raise blood glucose. Sustained GH elevation from CJC-1295 DAC may have more pronounced effects on glucose metabolism than pulsatile release from Mod GRF 1-29. Individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance should exercise caution.
Research & Educational Use Only
All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
The information presented here is compiled from published research studies and is intended for informational purposes only. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider.